15 August 2026
🐋 Curious Humpbacks Steal the Show in Port Stephens!
There was plenty of excitement both onboard and back in the Moonshadow-TQC Cruises office today, with our morning Whale Watch Cruise delivering one of those encounters that reminds us just how special whale watching in Port Stephens can be.
Our morning cruise found itself being well and truly “mugged” by a pod of relaxed and incredibly curious Humpback Whales.
For those unfamiliar with whale watching terminology, being mugged is a very good thing! It’s when whales choose to approach and remain close to the vessel, giving passengers the opportunity to simply sit back and watch as the encounter unfolds naturally.
They spent time circling Hinchinbrook Explorer, calmly investigating the vessel and giving everyone onboard some fantastic close-up views.
Adding to the excitement, the whales began spy-hopping slowly and gracefully lifting the tips of their heads above the surface to take a look at what was happening around them.
And judging by their behaviour, it seems their winter holiday up north has treated them well!
This afternoon whale watching delivered plenty of action around Fingal Lighthouse, with multiple groups of Humpback Whales keeping everyone onboard busy!
We encountered five separate pods, with three pods on their southern migration while two pods were running late to the party up north.
The northbound whales were certainly making their presence known, putting on a fantastic display of breaching and powerful pectoral fin slapping. With whales moving in both directions, there was always something happening on the horizon.
Adding to an already brilliant day on the water, groups of Common Dolphins came right up to the vessel, giving passengers a wonderful close up encounter and another memorable wildlife moment.
With active Humpbacks around Fingal Island and playful dolphins joining us along the way, it was another spectacular day of whale watching in Port Stephens with Moonshadow-TQC Cruises. 🐋🐬
Photo credit: Lee Matthews Photography